Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic
Tropical Story Beryl swept through the Dominican Republic 10 July with strong winds and torrential rains.
The storm affected many areas, including greater Santo Domingo, where floods forced people from their homes. Significant damage was also done to the country’s infrastructure and thousands lost their possessions. The Emergency Operations Center estimates the number of affected homes at more than 1,500 and the displaced around 8,000.
The Church of the Nazarene responded through Nazarene Compassionate Ministries and disaster response teams, showing God’s love to communities in need. Volunteers traveled from several different areas to come together to serve at least 70 families. They carried enough food to last a week, as well as hygiene kits, clothes, and bedding (mattress and boxes), among other supplies. As part of a joint effort, local pastors and response teams delivered supplies by going house to house in Las Palmas de Alma Rosa, Boca Chica, El Cafe de Herrera, and Haina.
“In every community and [with] every family, we pray, we praise God, and we thank Him in the middle of this situation, recognizing His compassion and love,” said Paquita Bido, NCM national coordinator.
“Several testimonies confirmed the importance of bringing practical love to the needy, just as Jesus would have done so.”
Storm victims expressed their gratitude for assistance in their time of need.
“Thank you, God,” Martina said after a bed was delivered to her family. “Finally, tonight we will be able to sleep in the house.”
Her family was sleeping in neighbors’ homes after they lost their home and belongings.
“May God bless the donors and the Church of the Nazarene for thinking of us,” said July, who was tearful as she was also given a bed.
Volunteers met the mother of a rescued 2-month-old girl, pulled from flood waters. The happy mother received a bag of food, which was needed as she had nothing left in her house due to storm damage.
Nazarene teams also provided assistance to members of the Church of the Nazarene of Boca Chica, Cristo la Roca and the surrounding community. All felt blessed to receive and provide help in a time of need.
Prayer is requested for the victims of Tropical Storm Beryl and for those continuing to provide disaster relief.
